you may definitely grow San Marzano tomatoes from seed ! In fact , it can be a rewarding experience to start your own seedlings and look out them arise into healthy , productive plants .
To begin , you will need to sow the ejaculate about 8 weeks before the last hoarfrost date in your area . It ’s a good idea to jibe with your local garden center or refer a gardening calendar to set the exact timing for your region . San Marzanos , being a form of plum tomatoes , have a long maturation period compared to other types of tomatoes . They typically require up to 85 days to maturate on the vine , so starting them a little earlier will give them ample clock time to grow and grow fruit .
To sow the seeds , you’re able to use come trays or small jackpot filled with a skilful timbre seed starting mix . drizzle the mix before planting the seeds to assure proper wet grade . Plant the source about 1/4 column inch cryptical , spacing them about 2 inches apart . Cover the seeds lightly with the seed starting mix and gently dab it down .
Once the seeds are set , place the tray or pots in a warm and bright locating , such as near a cheery window or under grow lights . observe a consistent temperature of around 70 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit to upgrade sprouting . It ’s important to keep the soil moist but not soggy , so water the seeds gently whenever the top in of grime feel dry .
After a workweek or two , you should bulge out to see the seedlings egress . At this peak , check that they invite fair to middling light to prevent them from becoming leggy and infirm . If raise them indoors , you may need to supplement with grow lighting to supply sufficient abstemious intensity .
As the seedling grow , it is important to bit by bit acclimatize them to outdoor conditions . This process , sleep with as hardening off , involve exposing the plants to increasing amounts of sunlight and outdoor temperatures over a period of 7 - 10 days . Start by placing them alfresco in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day , then gradually increase the duration and exposure to verbatim sunshine .
When the scourge of frost has die and the seedling have been properly harden off , it ’s time to transfer them into larger container or directly into the garden . San Marzano tomato plant are vigorous agriculturalist and can reach altitude of 6 to 8 feet , so check that to furnish adequate support such as stakes or cages .
When transplantation , be certain to space the plants about 2 - 3 feet apart to allow for proper tune circulation and to prevent overcrowding . San Marzanos are undetermined love apple , meaning they will continue to grow and produce yield throughout the growing season .
To insure respectable growth and maximal productiveness , put up your San Marzano works with well - drain soil , even lacrimation , and a balanced fertilizer . Monitor for pests and diseases , and take appropriate natural process if need .
With proper upkeep and attending , you will presently be enjoying delicious , homegrown San Marzano tomato that are pure for sauces , canning , or enjoying refreshed in salad . Happy gardening !
Caroline Bates
